Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo has claimed he holds contracts worth “US$9 billion from across Africa” along with partnerships with Western conglomerates, which he says finance his extravagant lifestyle.
The Intratrek Zimbabwe boss made the assertions during a recent appearance on local podcast TheDennyJ Show, amid growing attention on his relationship with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who has publicly praised the tycoon’s philanthropic efforts.
“I have got contracts from across Africa worth well over US$9 billion, mainly in infrastructural development, and I am in partnership with some European conglomerates and from China,” Chivayo told the podcast.
He added: “In all the important African countries that I would want to do business, I am well in touch with the leadership and key people, but now want to expand my western footprint, particularly in America.”
Chivayo’s business portfolio reportedly includes the rumoured US$2.9 billion Jomo Kenyatta International Airport expansion tender in Kenya, alongside other deals in Eswatini, Tanzania, South Africa, Uganda, and several other nations.
The businessman has increasingly positioned himself within the country’s political landscape, with some observers describing him as Mnangagwa’s “de facto political commissar and special envoy” due to his socio-political activities and regional engagements with continental leaders.
“Connections are very important in any business, but competency is also required because if you get a contract you gotta deliver on it,” Chivayo said.
The IMC Communications owner has drawn comparisons to international celebrities like Oprah Winfrey for his car-giving sprees, which he says will continue following Mnangagwa’s endorsement of his charitable activities.
Chivayo claims to have donated nearly US$200 million, earning recognition from Fortune Africa Magazine as one of the continent’s top philanthropists.
His personal fortune has grown alongside acquisitions including a Gulfstream 550, Bombardier Challenger 300 private jets, and mansions in Johannesburg’s affluent Sandhurst and Cape Town’s Clifton suburb.
His network of connections now reportedly includes African presidents such as Mnangagwa, Kenya’s William Ruto, Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Nigeria’s Ahmed Tinubu.
Regarding the Gwanda solar project tender reinstated by local courts, Chivayo said he would “put in his personal money not only to clear my name, but ensure the project goes ahead for my children’s legacy and name.”-newsday
